UK condemns police excesses against Kenyan protesters

British High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan during a past press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora affairs Headquarters in Nairobi on October 11, 2023. [David Gichuru, Standard]

The British High Commission in Kenya has condemned incidents of police brutality during protests to demand justice for Albert Ojwang and to push for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, yesterday.

Boniface Kariuki, a 22-year old city hawker was shot at close range, in Nairobi CBD, by a police officer leaving him in a life-threatening condition, an occurrence which has courted public outrage.

The embassy has further urged for a speedy and transparent probe into police conduct during the events which were marred by violence orchestrated by goons who accosted and subdued peaceful protesters and pedestrians alike.

"We are deeply disturbed by the violence against unarmed civilians and protesters yesterday," the commission stated on X, adding, "We urge a swift, independent, and transparent investigation into the actions of the police."

It further emphasized that the dereliction of duty by the police risked diminishing public trust in the service, especially after some of the reported criminal acts were committed on the watch of officers deployed to restore order.

"Police forces must command the trust and confidence of those they are duty-bound to serve and protect," said the commission in its statement.

Tuesday, June 17, protests were held in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi and Kwale counties and resulted in injuries and arrests.

Protesters have continued to push for justice for the family of Albert Ojwang, a teacher and blogger who was murdered while in custody at the Central Police Station in Nairobi.

Additionally, they want the Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat to resign after he was mentioned in the ongoing investigations.

Lagat has since stepped aside from office to pave the way for impartial investigations.